2002 Honda Civic Coupe Owners Manual

Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible ‘‘screeching.’’

Driving 189

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The Braking System

Brake System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels.

FFrroonntt

190

Driving

Anti-lock Brakes The U.S. EX model and Canadian Si-G model have an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment.

ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding during hard braking, allowing you to retain steering control.

When the front tires skid, you lose steering control; the car continues straight ahead even though you turn the steering wheel. The ABS helps to prevent lock-up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly; much faster than a person can do it.

You should never pump the brake pedal, this defeats the purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal as you steer away from the hazard. This is sometimes referred to as ‘‘stompandsteer.’’

You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal, it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes.

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The Braking System

Activation varies with the amount of traction your tires have. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before you activate the ABS. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice.

ImportantSafetyReminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the car, only helps with steering control during braking. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.

it

A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock. Slow down and allow a greater distance between vehicles under those conditions.

ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe, prudent speed for the road and weather conditions.

ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your car to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road.

CONTINUED

Driving 191

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The Braking System

ABSIndicator

AABBSS IINNDDIICCAATTOORR

＊＊

＊＊

UU..SS.. iinnddiiccaattoorr sshhoowwnn

62

The ABS is self-checking. If anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page ). This means the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system without anti- lock, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your car as soon as possible.

192

Driving

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Driving in Bad Weather

−

Always drive

Driving Technique slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your car longer to react, even in conditions that may seem just barely damp. Apply smooth, even pressure to all the controls. Abrupt steering wheel movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of control in wet weather. Be extra cautious for the first few miles (kilometers) of driving while you adjust to the change in driving conditions. This is especially true in snow. A person can forget some snow-driving techniques during the summer months. Practice is needed to relearn those skills.

−

Being able to see

Visibility clearly in all directions and being visible to other drivers are important in all weather conditions. This is more difficult in bad weather. To be seen more clearly during daylight hours, turn on your headlights.

Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently. Keep the wind- shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid. Have the windshield wiper blades replaced if they start to streak the windshield or leave parts unwiped. Use the defrosters and air conditioning to keep the windows from fogging up on the inside (see page

105

).

Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery.

CONTINUED

Driving 193

Rain, fog, and snow conditions require a different driving technique because of reduced traction and visibility. Keep your car well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these conditions.

Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer Your vehicle is not designed to tow a trailer. Attempting to do so can void your warranties.

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Driving in Bad Weather, Towing a Trailer

Traction − Check your tires frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing ‘‘hydroplaning’’ (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling.

Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. ‘‘Clear’’ roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing. The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice, so your traction can change without warning.

Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid.

194

Driving

Be very cautious when passing, or being passed by other vehicles. The spray from large vehicles reduces your visibility, and the wind buffeting can cause you to lose control.

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This section explains why it is important to keep your car well maintained and to follow basic maintenance safety precautions.

This section also includes Maintenance Schedules for normal driving and severe driving conditions, a Maintenance Record, and instruc- tions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself.

If you have the skills and tools to per- form more complex maintenance tasks on your Honda, you may want to purchase the Service Manual. See page for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your Honda dealer.

311

Maintenance Safety

...................... . 196
Important Safety Precautions . 197
Maintenance Schedule ................. . 198
Required Maintenance Record . 205
... . 207
Owner Maintenance Checks ....... .............................. Fluid Locations . 208
. 209
...................................... Engine Oil . 209
.................................. . 209
.................... . 210
.............................. .................................... . 210
. 211
..... . 213
............................. . 213
............ . 215
....... .................... . 219
. 220
.......................

Adding Oil Recommended Oil Synthetic Oil Additives Changing the Oil and Filter

Adding Engine Coolant Replacing Engine Coolant

Windshield Washers Transmission Fluid

Cooling System

.........................

. 220

Automatic

Transmission 5-speed Manual Transmission

Brake and Clutch Fluid

Brake System Clutch System

Power Steering Air Cleaner Element

......................... ................ ............................ ........................... .............................. .....................

. 222
. 223
. 223
. 223
. 224
. 225

Maintenance

Hood Latch Spark Plugs

Replacement Specifications

.................................... .................................... .............................. ............................ ........................................... ................................. .............. .................. ..................................... .................................... ............................................... ......................................

Battery Wiper Blades Air Conditioning System Dust and Pollen Filter Drive Belts Timing Belt Tires

Inflation

. 226
. 227
. 227
. 229
. 230
. 232
. 234
. 235
. 237
. 237
. 238
. 238

Recommended Tire Pressures

for Normal Driving

Inspection Maintenance Tire Rotation Replacing Tires and Wheels Wheels and Tires Winter Driving

........... .................................. .............................. ............................. ... ...................... .......................... ............................. ................... ............................................. ..................... ........................ ...........................

Headlight Aiming Replacing Bulbs

Snow Tires Traction Devices

. 239
. 240
. 240
. 241
. 242
. 243
. 243
. 243
. 244
. 245
. 247
. 250
. 254

Storing Your Car

Lights

Maintenance

195

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Maintenance Safety

Regularly maintaining your car is the best way to protect your investment. Proper maintenance is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free driving and help reduce air pollution.

This section includes instructions for simple maintenance tasks, such as checking and adding oil. Any service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic.

Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task.

Improperly maintaining this car or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner’s manual.

196

Maintenance

Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed.

Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner’s manual.

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Maintenance Safety

Important Safety Precautions Before you begin any maintenance, make sure your car is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is set. Also, be sure the engine is off. This will help to eliminate several potential hazards:

Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine.

Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching any parts.

Injury from moving parts. not run the engine unless in- structed to do so.

Do

Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required.

To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline or batteries. Use a commercially available degreaser or parts cleaner, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts.

You should wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air.

Maintenance

197

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Maintenance Schedule

The Maintenance Schedule specifies how often you should have your car serviced and what things need attention. It is essential that you have your car serviced as scheduled to retain its high level of safety, dependability, and emissions control performance.

198

Maintenance

The services and time or distance intervals shown in the maintenance schedule assume you will use your car as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendations:

Avoidexceedingyourcar’sload limit.Thisputsexcessstresson the engine, brakes, and many other parts of your car. The load limit is shown on the label on the driver’s doorjamb.

Operate your car on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit.

Drive your car regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers).

Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page 162

).

Which Schedule to Follow: Service your car according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages.

−

Follow the

U.S. Owners Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions if you drive your car MAINLY under one or more of the following conditions.

Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10
miles (16 km) per trip.

Driving in extremely hot [over 90°F (32°C)] conditions.

Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving.

Driving with a roof rack, or driving in mountainous conditions.

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more information.

We recommend the use of genuine Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability.

U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement or repair of emissions control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are ‘‘certified’’ to EPA standards.

Driving on muddy, dusty, or de- iced roads.

NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY or NEVER, drive under a ‘‘severe’’ condition, you should follow the Maintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions.

Canadian Owners Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

−

Your authorized Honda dealer knows your car best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Keep all the receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the Maintenance Record. Check your warranty booklet for

Maintenance Schedule

＃

According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with will not void your emissions warranties. However, Honda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at the recommended time or mileage period to ensure long-term reliability.

Maintenance

199

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Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.

−

Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Check engine oil and coolant Inspect front and rear brakes Check parking brake adjustment Visually inspect the following items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots, Suspension components Driveshaft boots, Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system, Fuel lines and connections ＃

＃

Replace air cleaner element Inspect and adjust drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter Replace transmission fluid

Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance Replace timing belt, and inspect water pump Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months

10
16

20
32

12

30
48

40
64

24

50
80

60
96

70
112

80
128

90
144

100
160

110
176

120
192

36

48

60

72

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

M/T A/T CVT

Service the following items at the recommended intervals.

＊

＊

Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)

Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy

Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,

then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

＃ 1: ＊ 2: ＊

See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 5 years. Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years, then every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 2 years

199

200

Maintenance

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Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. U.S. Owners Canadian Owners

Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

to determine which schedule to use.

Refer to page

198

−

−

10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr 20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs 3yrs 50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs 60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs

70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs 80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs

Every 110,000 mi/176,000 km, otherwise adjust only if noisy 110,000 mi/176,000 km 6yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs 110,000 mi/176,000 km/7 yrs

120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs

At 120,000 mi/192,000 km or 10
yrs, then every 60,000 mi/96,000 km or 5 yrs

Do items in A. Do items in A, B. DoitemsinA,C,D. Do items in A, B. □ Do items in A, E. DoitemsinA,B,C,D, □ Do items in A. Do items in A, B. DoitemsinA,C,D. Do items in A, B. □ □

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

Replace transmission fluid (CVT) . ＊

Replace transmission fluid (CVT) . ＊ Inspect valve clearance.

Replace spark plugs. Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

□ □ Do items in A. □ □ □ Do items in A, B, C, D. □

Replace engine coolant.

Replace timing belt, inspect water pump. Inspect idle speed. Replace transmission fluid (MT/AT ).

＊

＊

1:

＊

2:

＃

□ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □

Replace engine oil. Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 241 ). Replace engine oil filter. Inspect front and rear brakes. Check parking brake adjustment. Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots. Inspect suspension components. Inspect driveshaft boots. Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS). Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check for leaks. Inspect exhaust system. □ ＃ Inspect fuel lines and connections. □ ＃ Inspect and adjust drive belts. □ Replace dust and pollen filter. □ Replace air cleaner element every 30,000 mi/48,000
□ km (independent of time).

Replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 6 years, then every 90,000
miles (144,000 km) or 5 years. Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years, then every 40,000
miles (64,000 km) or 2 years See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

199

NOTE:

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.

Maintenance 201

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Check engine oil and coolant Visually inspect the following items:

Brake hoses and lines (including ABS) All fluid levels and condition of fluids Exhaust system, Fuel lines and connections ＃ Lights and controls, Vehicle underbody Check parking brake adjustment

＃

Inspect and adjust drive belts Replace dust and pollen filter ＊ Replace transmission fluid

Replace air cleaner element

Replace spark plugs Inspect valve clearance Replace timing belt , and inspect water pump ＊ ＃ Inspect idle speed Replace engine coolant

Replace brake fluid

Service at the indicated distance or time whichever comes first.

−

Replace engine oil Rotate tires (Check tire inflation and condition at least once per month) Replace engine oil filter Inspect front and rear brakes Lubricate all hinges, locks and latches Visually inspect the following items:

Tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots, Suspension components Driveshaft boots

miles x 1,000
km x 1,000
months

10
16

20
32

12

30
48

40
64

24

50
80

60
96

70
112

80
128

90
144

100
160

110
176

120
192

36

48

60

72

Replace every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months

Check oil and coolant at each fuel stop

M/T A/T CVT

＊

Service the following items at the recommended intervals.

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) in dusty conditions,

otherwise use normal schedule Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km)

Inspect every 110,000 miles (176,000 km), otherwise adjust only if noisy

Every 110,000 miles (176,000 km) or 7 years

At 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years,

then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years

Every 3 years (independent of mileage)

235
237

Refer to page Refer to page Replace at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 3 years, then every 40,000 miles (64,000 km) or 2 years. See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

for replacement information under special driving conditions. for replacement information under special driving conditions.

199

1: 2: 3:

＊ ＊ ＊ ＃ 202

Maintenance

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Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. U.S. Owners Canadian Owners

Use the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions.

to determine which schedule to use.

Refer to page

198

−

−

5,000 mi/8,000 km/6 mos 10,000 mi/16,000 km/1 yr 15,000 mi/24,000 km/1-½ yrs 20,000 mi/32,000 km/1 yr 25,000 mi/40,000 km/2 yrs 30,000 mi/48,000 km/2 yrs 35,000 mi/56,000 km/2-½ yrs 40,000 mi/64,000 km/2 yrs 3 yrs 45,000 mi/72,000 km/3 yrs 50,000 mi/80,000 km/3 yrs 55,000 mi/88,000 km/3-½ yrs At 60,000 mi/96,000 km or 3 yrs, then every 40,000 mi/ 64,000 km or 2 yrs 60,000 mi/96,000 km/3 yrs

65,000 mi/104,000 km/4 yrs 70,000 mi/112,000 km/4 yrs 75,000 mi/120,000 km/4-½ yrs 80,000 mi/128,000 km/4 yrs 85,000 mi/136,000 km/5 yrs 90,000 mi/144,000 km/5 yrs

Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do items in A, C. DoitemsinA,B,D. Do items in A. DoitemsinA,B,C,E. Do items in A. DoitemsinA,B,D. □ Do items in A, C. Do items in A, B. Do items in A. □

□ DoitemsinA,B,C,D,E. Do items in A. Do items in A, B. Do items in A, C. DoitemsinA,B,D. Do items in A. □ DoitemsinA,B,C,E.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

Replace transmission fluid (CVT).

Replace transmission fluid (M/T, A/T).

Replace transmission fluid (A/T).

□ □ □ □

□ □ □ □

Replace engine oil. Inspect front and rear brakes. Rotate tires (follow pattern on page 241 ). Lubricate all hinges, locks, and latches include the hood. Inspect tie rod ends, steering gear box and boots. Inspect suspension components. Inspect driveshaft boots. Replace air cleaner element.Every 15,000mi/24,000
km (independent of time) under dusty conditions, otherwise use Normal Conditions schedule. Check parking brake adjustment. Inspect brake hoses and lines (including ABS). Check all fluid levels, condition of fluids, and check for leaks. Inspect exhaust system. □ ＃ Inspect fuel lines and connections. □ ＃ Check all lights. □ Inspect the underbody. □ Inspect and adjust drive belts. □ Replace dust and pollen filter . □ ＊

□ □ □

CONTINUED Maintenance 203

Main MenuTable of ContentsstDo items in A. Do items in A, B, D. □ Do items in A, C. □

Inspect valve clearance.

Replace brake fluid (independent of mileage)

Replace spark plugs. , inspect water pump. Replace timing belt ＊ ＃ Inspect idle speed.

□ □ □ Do items in A, B. Do items in A. □ Do items in A, B, C, D, E. □

Replace engine coolant.

Replace transmission fluid (M/T, A/T).

＊

1:

＊ ＃

2:

235

See dust and pollen filter on page under special driving conditions. See timing belt on page See information on maintenance and emissions warranty, last column, page

to determine need for replacement.

for replacement information

237

199

NOTE:

Check engine oil and coolant at each fuel stop. Check and adjust valve clearance, cold engine, only if noisy.

01/08/09 20:53:56 31S5P610_207

95,000 mi/152,000 km/5-½ yrs 100,000 mi/160,000 km/5 yrs 6 yrs 105,000 mi/168,000 km/6 yrs Every 110,000 mil/176,000 km, otherwise adjust only if noisy 110,000 mi/176,000 km/6 yrs

115,000 mi/184,000 km/6-½ yrs 120,000 mi/192,000 km/6 yrs

At 120,000 mi/192,000 km or 10 yrs, then every 60,000 mi/ 96,000 km or 60 months

204

Maintenance

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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

You or the servicing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page conditions (page

). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle.

202

200

) or severe

Signature or dealer stamp

5,000 mi 8,000 km

10,000 mi 16,000 km

15,000 mi 24,000 km

20,000 mi 32,000 km (or 1 year)

25,000 mi 40,000 km

30,000 mi 48,000 km

Signature or dealer stamp

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

35,000 mi 56,000 km

40,000 mi 64,000 km (or 2 years)

45,000 mi 72,000 km

50,000 mi 80,000 km

55,000 mi 88,000 km

60,000 mi 96,000 km (or 3 years)

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

CONTINUED 205

Maintenance

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Required Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules)

Signature or dealer stamp

65,000 mi 104,000 km

70,000 mi 112,000 km

75,000 mi 120,000 km

80,000 mi 128,000 km (or 4 years)

85,000 mi 136,000 km

90,000 mi 144,000 km

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

95,000 mi 152,000 km

100,000 mi 160,000 km (or 5 years)

105,000 mi 168,000 km

110,000 mi 176,000 km

115,000 mi 184,000 km

120,000 mi 192,000 km (or 6 years)

206

Maintenance

Signature or dealer stamp

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

mi/km

Date

Main MenuTable of Contentsst01/08/09 20:54:23 31S5P610_210

You should check the following items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the page given.

Engine oil level Check every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

166

−

Engine coolant level Check the radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page

−

167

−

Windshield washer fluid Check the level in the reservoir monthly. If weather conditions cause you to use the washers frequently, check the reservoir each time you stop for fuel. See page

219

Automatic transmission Check the fluid level monthly. See page 220

−

Brakes monthly. See page

−

Check the fluid level

223

Owner Maintenance Checks

−

Tires Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 238

−

Check the operation of

Lights the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, turn signals, brake lights, and license plate lights monthly. See page

245

Maintenance 207

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Fluid Locations

EENNGGIINNEE OOIILL DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK ((OOrraannggee lloooopp))

EENNGGIINNEE OOIILL FFIILLLL CCAAPP

AAUUTTOOMMAATTIICC TTRRAANNSSMMIISSSSIIOONN FFLLUUIIDD DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK ((YYeellllooww lloooopp))

EENNGGIINNEE CCOOOOLLAANNTT RREESSEERRVVOOIIRR

RRAADDIIAATTOORR CCAAPP

208

Maintenance

BBRRAAKKEE FFLLUUIIDD ((GGrraayy ccaapp))

CCLLUUTTCCHH FFLLUUIIDD ((GGrraayy ccaapp))

WWAASSHHEERR FFLLUUIIDD ((BBlluuee ccaapp))

PPOOWWEERR SSTTEEEERRIINNGG FFLLUUIIDD ((RReedd ccaapp))

AAUUTTOOMMAATTIICC TTRRAANNSSMMIISSSSIIOONN FFLLUUIIDD DDIIPPSSTTIICCKK ((CCVVTT)) ((YYeellllooww lloooopp))

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Adding Oil

EENNGGIINNEE OOIILL FFIILLLL CCAAPP

To add oil, unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil, and install the engine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes and recheck the oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine.

Recommended Oil Oil is a major contributor to your engine’s performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade 5W-20
detergent oil displaying the API Certification Seal. This seal indicates the oil is energy conserving, and that it meets the American Petroleum Institute’s latest requirements.

Honda Motor Oil is the preferred 5W-20 lubricant for your vehicle. It is highly recommended that you use Honda Motor Oil in your vehicle for optimum engine protection.

Engine Oil

Make sure the API Certification Seal says ‘‘For Gasoline Engines.’’

AAPPII CCEERRTTIIFFIICCAATTIIOONN SSEEAALL

CONTINUED

Maintenance 209

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Engine Oil

The SAE number tells you the oil’s viscosity or weight. Select the oil for your vehicle according to this chart.

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Maintenance

5W-20 oil is formulated for year- round protection of your Honda, to improve cold weather starting, and to help your engine use less fuel.

If 5W-20 oil is not available, a 5W-30
oil may be used. However, it should be replaced with 5W-20 at the next oil change.

Synthetic Oil You may use a synthetic motor oil if it meets the same requirements given for a conventional motor oil: it displays the API Certification Seal, and it is the proper weight as shown on the chart. When using synthetic oil, you must follow the oil and filter change intervals given in the maintenance schedule.

Additives Your Honda does not require any oil additives. Additives may adversely affect your engine’s or transmission’s performance and durability.

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Changing the Oil and Filter Always change the oil and filter according to the time and distance (miles/kilometers) recommenda- tions in the maintenance schedule. The oil and filter collect contami- nants that can damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Changing the oil and filter requires special tools and access from underneath the car. The car should be raised on a service station-type hydraulic lift for this service. Unless you have the knowledge and proper equipment, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

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Engine Oil

1.

2.

Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then shut it off.

Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap. Remove the oil drain bolt and washer from the bottom of the engine. Drain the oil into an appropriate container.

3.

Remove the oil filter and let the remaining oil drain. A special wrench (available from your Honda dealer) is required to remove the filter.

4.

Install a new oil filter according to instructions that come with it.

CONTINUED

Maintenance 211

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Engine Oil

5.

Put a new washer on the drain bolt, then reinstall the drain bolt. Tighten it to:

(U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: DX, LX) 33 lbf·ft (44 N·m , 4.5 kgf·m)

(U.S.: EX) 29 lbf·ft (39 N·m , 4.0 kgf·m)

6.

Refill the engine with the recom- mended oil. Engine oil change capacity (including filter):

(U.S.: DX, LX, Canada: DX, LX) 3.4 US qt (3.2 , 2.8 Imp qt)

(U.S.: EX, HX) 3.7 US qt (3.5 , 3.1 Imp qt)

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Maintenance

7.

8.

9.

Replace the engine oil fill cap. Start the engine. The oil pressure indicator light should go out within five seconds. If it does not, turn off the engine and reinspect your work.

Let the engine run for several minutes and check the drain bolt and oil filter for leaks.

Turn off the engine, let it sit for several minutes, then check the oil level. If necessary, add oil to bring the level to the upper mark on the dipstick.

Improper disposal of engine oil can be harmf ul to the environment. If you change your own oil, please dispose of the used oil properly. Put it in a sealed container and take it to a recycling center. Do not discard it in a trash bin or dump it on the ground.

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Adding Engine Coolant

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If the coolant level in the reserve tank is at or below the MIN line, add coolant to bring it up to the MAX line. Inspect the cooling system for leaks. This coolant should always be a mixture of 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. Never add straight antifreeze or plain water.

Cooling System

Always use Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. This coolant is pre-mixed with 50 percent antifreeze and 50 percent water. It does not require any additional mixing.

If it is not available, you may use another major-brand non-silicate coolant as a temporary replacement. Make sure it is a high-quality coolant recommended for aluminum engines. However, continued use of any non- Honda coolant can result in corrosion, causing the cooling system to malfunction or fail. Have the cooling system flushed and refilled with Honda antifreeze/ coolant as soon as possible.

If the reserve tank is completely empty, you should also check the coolant level in the radiator.

Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can cause the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you.

Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap.

1.

Make sure the engine and radiator are cool.

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Maintenance 213

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Cooling System

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Do not add any rust inhibitors or other additives to your car’s cooling system. They may not be compatible with the coolant or engine compo- nents.

2.

Turn the radiator cap counter- clockwise, without pressing down on it, until it stops. This relieves any pressure remaining in the cooling system.

3.

Remove the radiator cap by pushing down and turning counterclockwise.

4.

The coolant level should be up to the base of the filler neck. Add coolant if it is low.

5.

Put the radiator cap back on. Tighten it fully.

6.

Pour coolant into the reserve tank. Fill it to halfway between the MAX and MIN marks. Put the cap back on the reserve tank.

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Maintenance

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Replacing Engine Coolant The cooling system should be completely drained and refilled with new coolant according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. Only use Honda All Season Antifreeze/ Coolant Type 2.

Draining the coolant requires access to the underside of the car. Unless you have the tools and knowledge, you should have this maintenance done by a skilled mechanic.

Cooling System

1.

Turn the ignition ON (II). Turn the temperature control dial to maximum heat. Turn off the ignition. Open the hood. Make sure the engine and radiator are cool to the touch.

2.

Remove the radiator cap.

3.

Loosen the drain plug on the bottom of the radiator. The coolant will drain through the splash guard. Remove the drain bolt and washer from the engine block.

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Maintenance 215

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Cooling System

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9.

Reconnect the battery cables to the terminals. Connect the positive ( ) cable first, then the negative ＋ ()cable. −

Battery posts,

WARNING: terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling.

OnU.S.EXandCanadianLXandSi The audio system disables itself when you disconnect the battery. Whenyouturnontheradioyouwill see ‘‘ display. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code (see page 155

’’ in the frequency

).

4.

Disconnect the battery cables from the terminals. Disconnect the negative ( ) cable first, then the positive ( ) cable.

− ＋

5.

Remove the bolt and nut, then remove the battery case.

6.

Remove the battery.

7.

Remove the reserve tank mounting bolt. Remove the reserve tank and drain the coolant. Put the tank back in place, making sure its bottom tab is in the holder. Reinstall the bolt.

8.

Reinstall the battery and battery case. Secure them with the bolt and nut.

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Maintenance

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